Blaney Meadows Hot Springs
109°F
Source water (NOAA)
Hike
Moderate access
Unknown
Fee not verified
Blaney Meadows Hot Springs is a backcountry spring on the John Muir Trail in Sierra National Forest, close to Muir Trail Ranch. Most people reach it from Florence Lake, either by walking or by using the lake's boat shuttle to cut the distance. Reviewers describe hot, cozy pools, but access can be blocked early in the season by snowmelt and high water.
01 · Before you go
Plan your visit
What to expect on the ground: rules, facilities and when to go.
- Camping nearbyBackpackers camp in the Blaney Meadows area. Muir Trail Ranch, a private resort, is nearby.
- ModerateGo after the spring runoff has dropped, from about midsummer to early fall.
- SeasonThe area is closed in winter and gets snow. In early June 2024 one hiker could not reach the springs because of snowmelt, a swollen river and flooded trail sections.
Best time to go. Go after the spring runoff has dropped, from about midsummer to early fall. Trip reports from July to October 2024 and from 2025 describe successful visits.
02 · Live
Conditions
Access status, weather and hazards. Closure feeds are checked automatically every morning.
Checked 14 Oct · updated daily
No 2026 closure notice was found for the hot springs. Reaching them requires a multi-day trip into the John Muir Wilderness with a wilderness permit, and the Florence Lake ferry and trails are seasonal. Check with the Sierra National Forest for current conditions and fire restrictions.
Early-season snowmelt can make the river high and the trail flooded or muddy. Reviewers also mention bugs. Pool water can be very hot, so test it before getting in.
03 · Route
Getting there
Nearest town: Shaver Lake.
- 1
The springs are in Blaney Meadows on the John Muir Trail, near Muir Trail Ranch and the South Fork San Joaquin River.
- 2
The usual approach starts at Florence Lake, reached by road from Shaver Lake.
- 3
Hikers either walk the trail around the lake or take the Florence Lake boat shuttle to the east end of the lake, which shortens the hike.
- 4
Trip reports describe about 20 miles round trip when hiking the whole way.
37.2340, −118.8810 · nearest town Shaver Lake, CA
04 · Where to stay
Stay nearby
Start early and stay close. Places to stay near Shaver Lake, from campgrounds to cabins.
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